As Kansans inhale smoke from Colorado wildfires, it's difficult not to think about our health – and the health of our planet. The best available science tells us that, as the effects of global warming become more severe, wildfires will occur with greater frequency, bringing more air pollution and devastation with them.

The Environmental Protection Agency, the agency most responsible for combating global warming, is still left without a leader. President Obama nominated Gina McCarthy more than 130 days ago, but senators who have sided with major global warming polluters are delaying her confirmation.

That's a real shame, because McCarthy has a stellar record of winning results for our air quality and public health. She has worked with both Republican and Democratic administrations and has won praise from industry leaders and environmentalists alike.

Despite this track record, Senators Pat Roberts and Jerry Moran haven't said how they will vote on McCarthy's nomination. Given the environmental and public health challenges facing us today, I urge Senators Roberts and Moran to support Gina McCarthy, so she can get to work addressing our biggest environmental challenges.